SEPTEMBER 10, 2025
Topic: “FASTING – PRICE TO PAY“
Text: Isaiah 58, Matt 17:21
Memory Verse: This kind goeth not out except by prayer and fasting. Mathew 1:21
Fasting is abstinence from food for a certain period of time. The Bible describes several types of fasting, broadly categorized as partial (Daniel 1:8), intermittent, corporate (Ezra 8:21-22), normal, and absolute fasts (Acts 9:9). These are used to grow spiritually, seeking God’s guidance, or addressing specific needs. Normal fast is 6am to 6pm – without water or food. Other types include absolute fast without water and food
Fasting is not a religious affliction, but a spiritual weapon designed for our victory in every battle of life. Fasting enhances the potency of our prayers; it is a spiritual catalyst in prayer.
Many of God’s children find it difficult to fast, due to the contest between the flesh and their born-again spirit. However, it is a command for Christians – Isaiah 58:6 “Is not this the fast I have chosen? ……” In Matt 6:16-17, Jesus shows us that fasting and prayer should be part of our lives as believers. It is part of our covenant obligation. He said “When ye fast…”, not “If you fast …” Fasting is not for special people; it is a command to put us in command of the affairs of life.
There are stiff oppositions to the progress of the believer for victorious living. However, when you add fasting to prayers, we overcome oppositions. The disciples were faced with the boy who had an evil spirit and was often thrown into fire and they couldn’t heal him. Jesus told them in Matt 17:21 that “Howbeit this kind goeth not out, but by prayer and fasting”. There are some issues that require the additional spiritual force of fasting. Daniel was also a man who prayed and fasted and help came from above.
Benefits of Fasting: After fasting in Luke 4:14 “…. and Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit”. Revelations come after fasting as well as sound health – Isaiah 58:8; the hold of sin over your life is destroyed through fasting. Speedy answers to prayers are also assured – Isa 58:9 and divine guidance guaranteed – Is 58:11. Furthermore, desired breakthroughs are assured – Isa 58:12-14 and wickedness is subdued – Isaiah 58:6
PRAYER: Be grounded and rooted in love, avoid unforgiveness and bitterness.